WATERLOO REGION

Weed-killing pesticides can't be sold in stores or used on lawns and gardens after April 22.

The Ontario government finalized its residential pesticide ban yesterday, listing more than 250 products banned from sale.

"We're just extremely happy that the government has listened to the health and environmental people and taken this really bold step," said Susan Koswan of Pesticide Free Ontario. "That's the really big news on this, that they will no longer be sold."

Retailers have been told products they can and can't sell. Many of the banned products carry well-known names such as Wilson, CIL and Scotts.

Koswan has long campaigned against lawn-care pesticides but never persuaded regional councillors to ban them year-round.

The Ontario ban replaces a patchwork of municipal restrictions, including partial restrictions enacted by regional council.

The provincial government says the ban protects families and children from unnecessary health risks. This is at odds with advice from the federal government, which says lawn-care pesticides are acceptable if used properly.

The Ontario ban exempts agriculture, where pesticides are far more widely applied. Also exempt are forestry, golf courses and public health and safety applications.

Koswan wants the golf exemption lifted eventually.

Surveys have found that pesticides are applied to between 34 and 57 per cent of local lawns and gardens. Tips on caring for lawns without them are at www.letscurbpesticides.ca.

jouthit@therecord.com